Along the left side of the church is the tall cylindrical bell-tower (post 9th century)

Altar in Sant Apollinare

Altar in Sant Apollinare

It is one of the most perfect Basilicas in Ravenna

Medallion with a haloed portrait of Christ

Numerous marble sarcophagi (from 5th to the 8th century) stand in the two aisles

On the sides, immersed in a group of many coloured clouds, there are the symbols of the Evangelists

Sant Apollinare in Classe is about 5 kms from the town of Ravenna which is renowned for its superb Byzantine mosaics

St Apollinaris in Classe with its byzantine mosaics

St Apollinaris in Classe with its byzantine mosaics

The Basilica was built by Giuliano Argentario on behalf of Archbishop Ursicinus during the first half of 6th century

The flock is symbolised by twelve sheep in a vast floral valley surmounted by a symbolic representation of Transfiguration

The interior is divided into the nave and two aisles which maintains the fascination of its ancient splendour

The magnificent bowl vault apse

There are twenty-four columns of Greek marble with transversal veining